Top Orthodontist and Pediatric Dentist in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Treatment
At Life OPD, our top priority is ensuring your child has the most comfortable and positive experience possible. Dr. Libby Paulsen is committed to offering options that help your child feel completely at ease during their visit.
Gentle Sedation Options
One of the most effective ways to calm a child’s anxiety during dental treatment is through the use of nitrous oxide (NO2) sedation, commonly known as “laughing gas.” This popular method is particularly recommended for children who require minor dental procedures.
Nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation is a blend of two gases, administered through a small mask placed over your child’s nose. This helps your child relax while remaining fully awake and conscious, with all natural reflexes intact. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, this method is both safe and effective for treating children’s dental needs.
The gas is mild, non-addictive, and quickly expelled from the body with normal breathing. While inhaling the gas, your child may experience:
- A warm, euphoric sensation
- Lightheadedness
- A feeling of floating or tingling in the limbs
- Possible drowsiness
- Giggling or a “funny” sensation
If your child feels any discomfort or adverse effects, the sedation can be easily adjusted or reversed. After the procedure, your child will not experience any lasting side effects and can resume their normal activities.
General Anesthesia
For certain procedures, Life Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry offers general anesthesia services. While Dr. Libby Paulsen does not administer general anesthesia in the office, she is credentialed to do so at hospitals in Charlotte.
What is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia induces a state of deep sleep, often necessary for surgical procedures. The purpose is to eliminate sensation, ensure no memory of the procedure (amnesia), and provide pain relief (analgesia).
When and Why General Anesthesia is Used
General anesthesia may be recommended for children who are very young, extremely fearful, uncooperative, or have special needs that make it difficult to complete necessary treatment while awake. It is also used when a large amount of dental work is required, or when the procedure is too lengthy or uncomfortable for the child to endure while conscious.
Our goal is to provide safe, high-quality care, and sometimes, general anesthesia is the best way to ensure a non-traumatic experience for our patients. Dr. Libby Paulsen is highly trained in outpatient dental anesthesia, ensuring your child receives the best care possible.